The Best Nightlife Guide to Whistler, British Columbia

Why is this long-running Whistler venue so popular? Regulars would say it’s a toss-up between the zany vibe (everyone is welcome) or the energetic dance floor (one of the largest in town.) Overseen by general manager Brendon King, who spent five years at the wonderfully rowdy Moe Joe’s Nightclub, Garfinkel’s has catered to all stripes since it opened its doors in 1991. In addition to the rollicking dance floor and live performances, there’s a smattering of big-screen TVs and pool tables.

Owner-brewer Kevin Winter is obsessed about refining his brews. Before opening the Brewhouse in 2016, he won gold for Canada’s Best German Pilsner for Mission Springs in 2014, and nabbed another gold for North America’s best smoke-flavored ale in 2015. The big open kitchen, spacious taproom and double-sided fireplace create a relaxed and airy feel, with a separate restaurant on the mezzanine level for guests who want to chow down on barbecue and rotisserie classics or watch a game on the big-screen TVs.

This stylish, boutique cocktail bar (high ceilings and tall windows overlooking Blackcomb Mountain) was a welcome addition when it launched in 2019. The owners – local couples Luke and Brandi Woodnutt, and Steph and Jason Redmond – wanted to serve up a touch of sophistication and creative cocktails. With a food and drinks menu emphasizing local ingredients, the Raven Room received two nominations at the 2020 Spirited Awards, one for Best International Hotel Bar-Canada and another for Best New International Cocktail Bar. Mission successful.

Classic cocktails with a modern twist. That’s how the Wildflower at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler entices skiers into its rustic, woodsy setting. While a casual venue by day, white tablecloths create a more formal ambience at dinnertime. The food (starters and full entrées) is the work of chef Isabel Chung. Expect locally inspired dishes, which can be enjoyed al fresco during the warmer months.

It’s not surprising that general manager Diane Rothdram (who joined in 2000 as bar manager) says Guinness is the drink of choice. Dubh Linn Gate has the cozy look and welcoming feel of a pub you’d expect to find in the Irish capital. Walkable from most major Whistler hotels, it’s one of the best nighttime options around for a friendly, sometimes boisterous, evening. Expect live entertainment (traditional and modern performers as well as DJs), a packed dance floor and a lengthy whiskey list.

Expect to see skiers in outdoor gear next to partiers in cocktail dresses or dudes in jeans and tees. Everything goes at rustic Buffalo Bills, which is now in its third decade. Entertainment includes a high-tech DJ booth, two dance floors, pool tables and even a handful of pinball machines. If you’re looking for a taste of Whistler nightlife early in the week, Martini Mondays will satisfy your desire to kick back and have some fun after a day on the slopes. Located in Whistler Green close to the golf course.

The Beacon is a casual, come-as-you-are kind of pub conveniently located across the road from Whistler Mountain Bike Park. Beacon’s hosts Super Caesar Weekends serving variations of the popular Canadian cocktail. The Beacon Bad Boy Caesar is a blend of vodka, house Caesar blend, rimmed with garlic salt and lemon pepper garnished with dry-cured chorizo, pepperoncini, pickles, olives and lime. Seats on the Beacon’s sprawling patio are always in demand in warm weather.

Australia native Anthony “Azza” Fleming oversees this comfortable chalet-style bar located in the stylish Westin Resort & Spa. The FireRock Lounge is an ideal spot for a romantic date night or quiet evening after a day on the slopes. They serve more than 20 different choices of Scotch and an impressively long tequila menu. Theme nights range from Tequila Tuesday to Pitcher Perfect Sunday, and the spacious patio has unobstructed views of the tree-covered mountains.